Indianapolis, IN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: John Boner Neighborhood Centers addressed preparedness gaps facing older adults in community housing, where limited incomes and access to supplies can increase risk during fires, power outages and extreme winter weather. The project paired practical education with direct support by distributing fire safety and winter weather kits to residents age 50 and over. Distribution events created opportunities for staff to share safety guidance, check in on wellness needs and reinforce available resources. Residents left with tools they could use immediately and information they could apply over time, strengthening confidence and independence at home. One participant described the relief of having multiple needs met in one place after receiving both safety supplies and help accessing supportive footwear, calling the experience a "blessing." The project deepened trust between residents and staff and established a foundation for continued safety outreach and preparedness programming.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Memphis, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Many older adults in the Hollywood community lacked clear guidance on how to prepare for disasters, leaving households without plans and uncertainty about insurance coverage. Center for Transforming Communities addressed this gap through two preparedness sessions that walked residents through local risks, insurance basics and practical planning steps. Participants created household disaster plans and discussed the supplies they would need to respond more effectively. One resident said, "I liked the way you broke it down. I understood what you were talking about. It helped me go home and make these changes." Another participant contacted her insurance provider after learning about common coverage gaps. Follow-up check-ins are planned to help residents keep plans current, reinforcing preparedness over time.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Pittsfield, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: The City of Pittsfield Senior Center focused on helping older adults prepare for severe weather and power outages when many residents lacked clear emergency plans. The center delivered interactive preparedness workshops that paired practical guidance with personalized planning and starter emergency supply kits, reaching residents in housing communities, nursing homes and other local gathering spaces. The effort emphasized collaboration with local agencies to ensure information was accurate and accessible. The project strengthened community relationships and positioned the Senior Center as a trusted hub for emergency readiness. A key outcome was a formal evacuation partnership that designated the center as an evacuation site. One staff member said the work helped the center step beyond its walls and better support residents before the next emergency.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.